Christmas gift and plant sale for Timor-Leste

In a departure from BMETS legendary garage sales this event will only feature new goods. The unused items and recycled gifts include a large donation of goods from the now-closed Maison Montage formerly of Leura Mall. The high-quality home and gift shop has donated a range of jewellery, soap, shoes, homewares and other items and proceeds from the Christmas sale will support projects in Timor Leste.

BMETS member Ruth Moline said: "In this difficult year for many people we are extremely grateful to Maison Montage for their stock. Offering the lovely things at largely discounted prices will make Christmas shopping a bit easier."

Calendars and plants will also be available. Donations of both plants and brand new items such as unwanted gifts will also be accepted on site on Friday, November 27 - the day before the sale.

The BMETS calendar features photos of Timor-Leste taken last year by Design and Screen Media students from Western Sydney University. The students, led by WSU academic Dr Wendy Chandler, produced documentary profiles of Timorese university students, including many studying with the aid of scholarships funded by the generosity of Blue Mountains residents through BMETS and Together for Timor.

Debbie Cannon a student from Lawson said the visit was beyond her wildest dreams.

"It still blows my mind how generously they give from the little that they have. The ambitions of Timorese university students are not self-seeking. On the contrary, their primary ambition is to help their families and their nation with the skills they gain."

Glenbrook's Victoria Hart said: "Before the trip I had little knowledge of Timor-Leste. After a month I gained a whole new understanding and love for the culture. I was deeply affected by the selflessness and generosity that we were shown by people who have very little to give."

The sale at 26 Fitzgerald Street, Wentworth Falls will run from 9am to 3pm on Saturday, November 28.